Post by crazykittensmile on Feb 20, 2013 15:12:04 GMT -5

Here are a few I haven't seen mentioned yet.

DIIV: Even though their music is pretty mellow and fun, these dudes tear it UP on stage! So much energy and jumping around, I couldn't enjoy myself 100% (only 99%) because I was worried someone was bound to get a guitar to the face. Also their drummer has hilarious banter, and asked people to get naked multiple times. Great show and their songs translated perfectly live.

The Stepkids: Opened for someone else I saw a year or two ago. They had some trippy low budget visuals and put on a pretty funky show. I'll see them again if there's no conflict!

Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti: Saw them at Coachella in 2011. They played briefly and the singer had a meltdown of some sort and spent the rest of the set with his back to the audience, not singing, in a staring contest with his finger. Very strange. I'd like to check them out again, though!

Post by robin on Feb 20, 2013 15:22:37 GMT -5

HAIM - Saw them at the Cannery in Nashville opening for Julian Casablancas. I actually thought their set was better than Julian's. Their music is MUCH more impressive live than recorded IMO (but I still enjoy the recordings). I immediately tried to find their music online, but they only had like two songs up. They still don't have much out. The band is made up of three sisters and a male drummer. They have been described as "primal" live. They did a really cool percussion break when I saw them with each sister using her own drum. This is one of the shows I am looking forward to the most since they don't visit a lot of locations on tour. A+

David Byrne & St. Vincent - Saw them at the Ryman in Nashville in the fall of 2012. It was a really good show. I wasn't the biggest fan of the album they put out together, but it came off a lot better live. The only part that is sort of annoying is that you want St. Vincent to sing her songs and David Byrne to sing Talking Heads songs. They do a few, but you are left wanting more. Overall, still a really good show and I will be seeing them at roo as long as I don't have a conflict. B+

I've seen Jim James with MMJ, but I don't feel like that counts since he will probably be playing a lot off his new solo album.

Post by James Baxter on Feb 20, 2013 15:24:03 GMT -5

Wilco - Not the highest energy show, but good for a venue with a lawn.

David Byrne & St. Vincent - Perfect sound, choreography and setlist. Got to hear some Talking Heads classics with a brass section in addition to the astounding collaborative efforts.

Weird Al Yankovic - Saw him on the Lynwood tour in 07, and I sang along to every word. It's always going to be greatest hits with him, though, so no deeper cuts I'd like to hear like Everything You Know is Wrong, but still a good time. Fingers crossed for a full performance of Albuquerque, even if I probably won't be able to make the set due to conflicts.

ZZ Top - They killed it at Freefest. I didn't even know them that well. Watched them while waiting for Jack White pit. They were tight and demonstrated exemplary showmanship.

JEFF the Brotherhood - They opened for The Kills, and had the best of three amazing sets. Shredder was one of the most overcoming experiences I have had live.

Portugal. The Man - Caught most of their Freefest set from the sidelines, and I wasn't won over. Maybe it was my spot, or an off day, really want to love them live.

Allen Stone - Fun set, great backing band. However, I am totally ready to skip him when conflicts get ugly

Post by monkybunney on Feb 20, 2013 18:17:47 GMT -5

Already posted this in a redundant thread but since I put some effort into it I'm copy/pasting here.The National - I saw them open for Arcade Fire on the Neon Bible tour. I thought they were boring as hell but allot of people like them. I'll probably pass.ZZ Top - Saw them a couple years ago, they were fantastic fun. A do-not-miss on my list.Weird Al - Saw him back in 84(?) on the In 3D tour, w/ Harry Anderson (judge from night court) opening doing magic tricks and stand up. Awesome! Barring a horrible conflict I'll be there.Govt Mule - Saw them a couple of times here in Atlanta, awesome, Warren is a monster and they rock the Quack out. Barring a horrible conflict I'll be there.John McLaughlin - Saw him here in Atlanta like 10 years ago. This man is LEGEND. Though I suspect some people who do not appreciate Jazz may not enjoy it. A do-not-miss on my list.Preservation Hall Jazz Band - Saw em in New Orleans about a year ago, crazy good, very upbeat and fun show. Another Do-not-miss.Calexico - Saw them in Atlanta in 2013 & 2012, Austin in 2011, Roo 2010. They are always awesome, their music can't help but conjure images desert landscapes and tumbleweeds on the lone prairie. A HUGE do-not-miss.Futurebirds - Saw them at Boomslang in KY in 2012. I thoroughly enjoyed it though some in my party thought they were kinda boring. Southern blues rock with allot of soul. Barring a horrible conflict etc.

Post by heyethan on Feb 20, 2013 18:48:17 GMT -5

Mumford & Sons - Roo 2011, not a fan but they sounded nice I guess. if you are a fan you will probably have a good time.Wilco - sprawling career-spanning sets and a whole lot of asskicking. everyone knows these guys put on a good show.David Byrne & St. Vincent - Never seen the LOVEGIANTS combopack but have seen St. Vincent before and a quick perusing of the u-tube will show this chick is a force for good in the world of music-playing-on-stagesJim James - seen him with MMJ and MoF, MoF is probably more accurate to his solo show. in either case his vocals are pretty damn reliable. he plays a guitar and sings the songs u like to hear. I donno what his solo show entails exactly but if it is anything like MoF I wouldn't expect the wacky disco-rocking antics of MMJ's live show. STILL if you like Jim James, you like Jim James.JEFF The Brotherhood - seen these guys play everywhere from basements to living rooms to ballrooms to balls-rooms, one of the most distinguished acts of the rising nashville garage rock/punk scene. You will have a good time if you like a band to play loud and rock your fuckin nuts off. the brotherhood really are a brotherhood and they have great chemistry and matching transparent instruments. If you are a guitar nerd you will want to come just to see Jake's custom 3-string transparent-bodied SG in action

kinda surprised that's all I've seen, I was expecting to go thru the lineup and find I had seen 10 or so. lots of new ground to break this year!

Post by monkybunney on Feb 20, 2013 19:11:05 GMT -5

John McLaughlin - Saw him here in Atlanta like 10 years ago. This man is LEGEND. Though I suspect some people who do not appreciate Jazz may not enjoy it. A do-not-miss on my list.

Just wanted to add another argument to the reason why John McLaughlin is a must see - This guy use to play with Miles fucking Davis, in fact one of the songs on Bitches Brew is called "John McLaughlin".

Post by jorgerdz on Feb 20, 2013 19:30:23 GMT -5

The Tallest Man on Earth: Saw him at last year's Lolla. A bit of a quiet act for a festival, but he still drags a big crowd and rocks harder than you might think. Definitely will see him again

Mumford & Sons: Saw them at Roo '11. Sound was terrible, couldn't hear a thing, but it seemed to be going well for the people up front. Might catch them again, depending on the schedule.

Passion Pit: Saw them at a festival in Mexico last november. They're definitely a lot of fun, even though I wasn't a fan of them back then. Will see them again

Grizzly Bear: Saw them in Mexico City about two weeks ago. Nothing short of amazing, hope they get a long set at Roo, otherwise it might be a bit hard to get into their show if it lasts less than an hour. Must see

Of Monsters and Men: Saw them at last year's Lolla. It was seriously packed and the crowd was crazy. It's a fun act, but not sure I'll see them again, unless there's nothing else going on at that time.

Edward Sharpe: Saw him about two years ago in a mexican festival. Crazy show, great tunes and the frontman goes nuts on stage. Their new album isn't that great though. I think I'll see them

Portugal. The Man: I've seen them about 3 times, first one was at Roo '11, then at Lolla '11, and last time was in a mexican festival last november. They've all been great, especially the last one. Their new lineup might be even better than the original one. They're a must see for everyone.

Foals: Saw them in Mexico City two years ago. One of the craziest shows I've been to. New album's great, as well. Will be catching them at the farm.

Local Natives: Seen them twice, at a mexican festival in 2011 and at that same year's Lolla. First time they were amazing, but at Lolla they were a little bland. New album's great, though, so I will definitely catch them at Roo

Walk The Moon: Seen them twice, at Roo '11 and at Lolla '11. They're a lot of fun, although their cheerful synth-pop might not suit everyone. Will see them again for sure

The Vaccines & Django Django: I saw them both a festival in Spain last July, although I was a bit too tipsy to remember their shows well. They were fun for sure, might see them again

Post by luvdatroo on Feb 20, 2013 19:35:17 GMT -5

Tom Petty 1995 2000 Houston Great Shows both. Lots of energy great audience reaction. Highly recommended. A++Wilco 2009 bonnaroo great show really enjoyed it i went with them with a freind not knowing what to expectits not really my thing but they were good. ABonnaroo Awesome he played many great talking heads songs. again scheduling permitiing A+Dwight Yoakum 2002 El Paso another great performance do not miss this show. A+Jim James 2004 Bonnaroo ACL (With MMJ) MMJ 04 bonnaroo enough said. Will not miss jim james at bonnaroo period. A++Preservation hall jazz band 2004 2005 2009 NOLA Jazz fest. This band is a treat all the parasols in the tent at the jazz fest. Do not miss this show. I won't A++Trombone Shorty 2009 Bonnaroo (with Galactic) COol NOLA sound good show as always w galactic. hopefully on thursday so there no big scheduling conflict. A

Post by Cameroon on Feb 20, 2013 20:29:47 GMT -5

Gov't Mule (2x) - They're great at what they do. Warren will shred like no other guitarist over the weekend, and Matt and the rest of the band will be right there with him. If you enjoy their music you'll enjoy their live show. If not, they're still worth watching for a little bit if you don't have any other conflicts. A

Mumford & Sons - I Saw their 2011 set at Bonnaroo. They're a very energetic band and the atmosphere they create during their performances is awesome. Definitely worth checking out. B+

Jim James - I've only seen him with MMJ, but his set will be incredible. Definitely do not miss his set. A++

Pretty Lights - I'm personally not a big fan of the type of electronic music he plays, but his shows are undeniably fun. Check him out if you want to have a good time with other people who are having a great time. B

Futurebirds - They were the first band I ever saw at Bonnaroo, and I can honestly say they did not disappoint. I'm not a huge fan of their studio stuff, but live they're great. Check them out if you have no conflicts. B-

Post by gryphonkin on Feb 20, 2013 21:06:37 GMT -5

Mumford & Sons- Bonnaroo 2011- Great show. Very high energy. Wasn't sure if they'd live up to the hype, but they did. Bringing out Jerry Douglas, Old Crow Medicine Show, and Cadillac Sky didn't hurt.

Tom Petty- Sometime in the mid-90's- Great show. Really high energy. You forget just how many hits he has until he pulls out song after song for 3 hours and you know them all. He did sprinkle a few rarities into the mix and they played with the arrangement on some songs enough so you didn't feel like you were listening to a cd. His band is really tight.

Jim James (with MMJ, Bonnaroo 2011)- One of my two favorite Bonnaroo sets of all time.

Trombone Shorty- Bonnaroo 2010- Really fun show. I had to miss the last 20 minutes of it to get a spot for Jill Andrews' set, but what I saw was good.

Jason Isbell- I've never seen a full set by the band, but I've seen them do a couple of one-off songs at the Americana Awards and Isbell played several songs at the Levon Helm Tribute at Americanafest. His fiancee Amanda Shires was opening for Todd Snider in Huntsville last year and Isbell was on guitar for the entirety of both their sets. Really talented guy and seems like a genuinely nice dude.

Nicki Bluhm- Another person I haven't seen a full set from, but she did a couple of guest appearances at Americanafest and she was excellent.

Sam Bush- Saw him at Bonnaroo last year. He's a can't miss. I was really disappointed at how sparse the crowd was for his set compared to The Avett Brothers, who have spent pretty much their entire careers walking the trails blazed by Newgrass Revival.

Post by fearofpride on Feb 20, 2013 21:43:29 GMT -5

Mumford and Son - Roo '11: good show, alot of your were probably therePetty - Roo '06: Found him to sound a little too much like the radio. Left early to get in line for Demetri Martin. Feel better about him as a Sunday headliner than a Friday headliner.Bjork - Coachella '07 - Amazing!Pretty Lights(x2) - twice at roo ('09 and '11 i think): good late night energy, kept me there the first time when i didn't know who he was.Daniel Tosh - Duluth, MN '11: Better at stand up than i though he was going to be. I imagine he'll be scheduled two shows like Aziz last year and will lose out to conflicts. David Byrne & St. Vincent - Minneapolis '12: Fantastic show. Hopefully they preheadline, so everyone can see the coreography as well as enjopy the music.The XX(x2) - Roo '10, Minneapolis '12: Can make you feel intense and chill at the same time.Grizzly Bear - Roo '09: Only caught part of the show, and left wishing i'd seen more.Weird Al(x4) - Minnesota state fair (x3), Minneapolis '12: His live shows are so much fun, asnd his band is fantastic. Bonnaroo's been in need of Weird Al for a long time. Strongly reccomend.Gaslight Anthem - Roo '10: I remember enjoying it more than i thought i would, but it didn't really create many permanent memories. Portugal The Man - Roo ' 11 Great show. Didn't catch all of it, cause there was so many things going on that day. Pretty sure i'll be catching them this year.Local Natives - Roo '11 This time was suppose to be evenly split between them and Miike Snow. However i couldn't pull myself away and the time was split 1 hour/ half hour instead of 45min/45min. Such a great show. (At some point i'll give Miike Snow their other 15 minutes)Matt & Kim - Roo '11 Mounds of fun and energy.Mike Birbiglia - Minneapolis '09 - Great live comedy, it'll take a pretty big conflict to miss him. Purity Ring - Mineapolis '12 Great show, his lighted bell set up is pretty cool. I really hope they are Thursday night, a day set would be a bit of a setback.Japandroids - Roo '10 I went and saw Ingrid Michealson instead of standing in line for a ticket to whoever was in the comedy tent at the time. This lead my to watch these guys instead of comedy and i was quite impressed. A very pleasant surprise from a band i was a bit unfamiliar with.

Post by summerteeth214 on Feb 20, 2013 22:17:53 GMT -5

Paul McCartney - A legend. Who plays his hits. And sounds great. And looks like he's having a ball. I'll be glad to (hopefully) see him up close and in a crowd full of dancing people, as I saw him in an arena from the nosebleed section and you can't really dance in the nosebleed section. Skip this set and you hate music.

Wilco - I'm biased because they are my favorite band, but they are one of the greatest live bands on the planet. And The Whole Love was their best album since A Ghost Is Born. I think this will be my 10th show.

Pretty Lights - I've never really understood why people go nuts for his music, but I saw him at the first MoogFest while 4loko'd up and had a blast. The visuals are nice, too.

The National - Like Wilco, one of my favorite bands and one of the best live bands on the planet. A lot of emotional pull in their live set.

Passion Pit - I've never been huge on Passion Pit. I like about half of their recorded output. But their set at MoogFest 2011 took me by surprise. They've come into their own as a live band (also saw part of their Bonnaroo '09 set while waiting in line for Triumph) and put on a fun show.

Kendrick Lamar - Caught him at Pitchfork last year and, god damn, guy's got some stage presence. His skills in a live setting are on point and he knows how to get a crowd going. Also, no bullshit hype-men. On a personal level, I really connected with his talk about how music saved his life/means everything to him. Can't wait to hear the new stuff live.

Animal Collective - Despite being poorly scheduled, I thoroughly enjoyed their Bonnaroo '09 set. Their set at Pitchfork in 2011, however, is one of my all time favorites. Corn + killer set + killer set design + outside + at night = perfect. I imagine they'll be late night and I imagine I'll be grinning my face off again. Don't come expecting to hear a lot of songs you know. Despite the '09 set, they mostly play brand new material and they are one of the only bands that can get away with it because the new stuff is always great.

Beach House - Seen them in clubs and at festivals. A strong live band that deserves a late night slot. If they get scheduled any time before sunset/evening, I'd recommend skipping them and catching them in a club.

Cat Power - Caught her twice on the Memphis Rhythm Band tour (including Bonnaroo) and it was fantastic. Really looking forward to seeing her with a different set up. Such a commanding voice.

A$AP Rocky - Like Kendrick, he deserves every ounce of hype he gets. His records are killer and he puts on a hell of a live show, A$AP Mob in tow. If you don't have fun during his set, you're one jaded motherfucker. Another act more than deserving of a late night slot.

Matt & Kim - Caught them on their tour for Grand. Nothing essential, but it's a fun show.

Dirty Projectors - Just as amazing live as on record. Pretty ladies, too.

The Tallest Man On Earth - Killer songwriter. Great live performer. I feel like there aren't very many people who can engage a crowd with just a guitar and a voice, but Kristian is one of them.

Preservation Hall Jazz Band - Caught a bit of one of their sets in '06 when they had their own tent (BRING THE PRESERVATION HALL TENT BACK, ESP. THE NEW ORLEANS BINGO SHOW.) Dixieland jazz at it's finest. Also caught the tail end of their set opening for My Morning Jacket a couple years ago, but the fucking bros wouldn't shut the fuck up.

Divine Fits - Caught them here in Raleigh after they played MoogFest last year. I think Britt Daniel and Dan Boeckner are two of the better frontmen in the current rock landscape, so put them together and yeah it's a great show. They also played a really great cover of Frank Ocean's "Lost"

Swans - If you're looking to cleanse yourself come Sunday, look no further. They will blast every inch of dirt off your body (and by that, I mean they are LOUD AS SHIT) and remind you what it feels like to be alive.

AraabMuzik - Caught him at Pitchfork last year, but it was a Sunday afternoon. Still a good show (despite getting a tad too brostep at points), but I'd really love to see him late night in a tent.

Cults - For the record: I thought the Cults album was a great pop record. That being said, one of the absolute worst live bands I've had the displeasure of hearing. Overheard a couple songs at Pitchfork last year and it was horrendous. The band was fine, but Madeline whateverhernameis can't sing for shit live. It sounds like a cat dying. Really. Stay out of earshot.

Four Tet - MoogFest 2010. One of the best shows I've seen in the past few years. While his records tend to be quieter, his live show kicks. BETTER be late night.

Killer Mike - Despite the fact that I'm fairly certain he raps over his own tracks (as opposed to instrumentals), Killer Mike is great live. He commands the stage and has a killer (no pun intended) arsenal of songs.

Reptar - They played a free show here in Raleigh, I believe, and it was a lot of fun. Would be a fun Thursday set.

Matthew E. White - Do NOT miss his set. You can feel the soul in his music. A very spiritual set that would be perfect in a tent on Sunday.

Post by Riff Free Or Die on Feb 21, 2013 12:29:55 GMT -5

Mumford & Sons Roo 11'- So many smiling people in that crowd can't be wrong.

Tom Petty x2- Never a disappointment, The Heartbreakers are one of the tightest live bands I've ever seen.

Wilco Roo 09'- I've been waiting for a long time to see them again, must see.

Pretty Lights x2 Roo 09'11'- Despite the bro following, he brings it live always. I'm not going to stop liking him because he is getting popular

Nas x2- Saw him solo, years ago. He opened for DMX and it was awesome. The other was with Marley at Roo. The Beastie guest spot was legendary, if we only knew at the time RIP MCA

Edward Sharpe x3- Roo 10' was so much fun. Got to meet the band a couple moths later, they are who we thought they were! Love em!

Jim James x6- x5 times with the best live band in the world! Also got to see Appalachian voices tour, with Jim, Ben Sollee, and Daniel Martin Moore when they played for NPR's Mountain Stage. Got to meet to them after. Kinda went American Dad on Jim James, with more mumbling. I don't really know, it's a blur of memory. Greatest moment of my life though.

Gov't Mule x7- Uncle Warren nuff said.

Portugal. The Man- Only the Surprise Mardi Gras float show, I pity the fool who missed that. I won't miss the chance to see them again

Del McCoury x4- He is always fantastic and has Delfest close to my home in MD which is always a good time. Jam and Bluegrass friends check it out, lineup gets better every year. Never seen Sam Bush, I can't wait to see them together

Amadou & Miriam- Stumbled on to them last time they were on the farm. So much fun, highly danceable blues music

Preservation Hall Jazz Band x3- NOLA Jazz at it's absolute finest. Can't wait to see them all over the farm, cause they will be everywhere no doubt about it.

Paper Diamond- Saw him once, it was good live. Not my favorite on his records, as with most EDM a lot better live.

Conspirator x2- The Pour House in Charleston, SC they crushed it. I really like this band. Surprised with the rise of EDM and festivals, that they are not more popular. Marc Brownstein is always fun live. No matter what band he is with

Futurebirds x2- once at Roo, and the other to a sparse crowd in Charleston, no matter, they played their asses off. They stuck around to hang out after the show. They are a fun bunch to rock n roll with it!

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit x2- What an incredible songwriter! Why the hell is he so low on the lineup? Anyway, they kill it live. If you like smart, southern rock/country he is as good as it gets. He wrote my favorite sad country song "Outfit". It was released when he was with Drive-By Truckers, if you don't know it, check it out

Post by slimerrocks on Feb 21, 2013 12:58:02 GMT -5

Paul McCartney: EPIC (he is a Beatle in case you didnt know) He also is an old man who played 3.5 hours and over 30 songs. How many other bands (even ones half his age) do that? Obviously in a festival there are time restraints but I always think about when I see some new band that plays 90 minutes.Mumford: EPIC and an awesome lights showTom Petty: AWESOME, always puts on a great show and I am a big fanLumineers: FUN, they are very generous to the audienceDavid Byrne & St. Vincent: AWESOME, puts on a great showZZ Top: lots of funJim James: EPIC Edward Sharpe: Lots of fun and very generous to the crowdFuturebirds: AWESOME

Post by prhbtn on Feb 21, 2013 13:09:43 GMT -5

I promoted shows for ten years, worked at two clubs, and lived in Nashville for three years working in the music industry. I should have said close to 3,000 bands but I saw somewhere in the range of 200 bands a year for the years 1999-2010.

Post by brandinian on Feb 21, 2013 13:29:15 GMT -5

Sir Paul McCartney - I've seen Macca two times now, both in DC. The first show was actually the first concert that I'd ever been to, and I was like a kid in a candy shop, only the candy came in the form of perhaps the greatest living songwriter playing directly infront of me. Paul doesn't dissappoint. If you like the Beatles, you'll like the show. If you like Wings, you'll like the show. If you like his solo stuff, you'll like the show. The setlist spans his entire career, and he's not stupid. He knows that people are shelling out tons of money to come see a former Beatle in many cases, and he knows that people want to hear what could be considered the greatest songs of all time, so he plays them. But he also doesn't let down fans who have been following him through the years, and will pepper the set with tons of great and at times unexpected songs. He is a must see at the farm. His voice is still killer, his stage presence is flawless, and the chance to see such a legend is truly rare. Rating: A++++

Mumford & Sons - Like Macca, I've seen Mumford twice now, once on the farm back in '11, and once in New York City in '10. Definitely one of the best bands that I've ever seen live. While I'm a big fan of their music and their albums, their live show is on an entirely different level. The sheer energy that they bring to their performance is contagious, and I've no doubt that they'll be one of the most fun shows this year, with tons of shouting and foot stomping. They sound phenomenal, and even better than they do on their records at times. When they get into the songs, you just feel it. The whole crowd does. And that makes them an entirely wild experience. I described hearing Awake My Soul while the sun was setting on Bonnaroo '11 as the closest thing that I'll ever have to a religious experience. I still maintain that. Rating: A+

Glen Hansard - Holy shit, I'm so excited that Bonnaroo has Glen Hansard this year. I've seen the guy ten times in concert, and the farm will be my eleventh. His music really strikes such an emotional chord in you, and his voice has an unmatched passionate. You can hear the fire in his soul. He's excellent at audience interaction, and knows how to work the crowd. Glen is the BEST live musician that I've ever seen, as probably evidenced by the fact that I've seen him ten times. He always switches up his setlist to keep things fresh. He tells stories, and he loves to get the audience to sing along and participate. You'll be cheering one moment, crying the next, and leaving with a euphoric feeling, even though you left all your rum back at the campsite. I can't say enough about how fantastic Glen is. You'll just need to go and see for yourself. Rating: A+

The Tallest Man On Earth - Had the pleasure of seeing him last year in New York City. He's long been one of my favorite artists, and I have really fond memories of listening to his new album while roadtripping down to Manchester last year. Again, this is an artist that pours his heart into his music. He's even better live than he is on his albums. I'd definitely recommend going to see him full heartedly. One of my favorite aspects of the concert was that it featured new arrangements of old songs of his that I had become used to. And they sounded even better. He's not afraid to tinker with his music in order to make it better, and he certainly does. Music must come so naturally to him, because he makes it look so easy. His songs rip at your heartstrings, and his lyrics are incredible. Go see him. If not, you'll be missing out. Rating: A

Kendrick Lamar - Admittedly, I'm not a big rap fan. I saw Kendrick play at Bonnaroo last year, and while I enjoyed it enough, I wasn't crazy about it. Nothing really sticks out as super memorable in my mind, and I didn't feel the need to go home and buy any of his albums like I did with a few other acts at the festival. He was good, just not really my taste, and therefore not memorable to me. I don't think he's going to make many people jump onto the rap train like a few acts at the farm this year are going to be able to. Really looking forward to Macklemore, Wu-Tang, and Earl Sweatshirt. Rating: C

Nas - So, I actually had the chance to see Nas perform on The Colbert Report when I was in the audience a few years back. He killed it. Here is a rapper that really pumped me up and made me want to check out the rest of his stuff. I'd definitely like to see him again doing a full set, but it's not a super high priority for me. However, he was great, and I'm sure fans of his went crazy. Rating: B

Post by carl brutananadilewski on Feb 21, 2013 13:39:05 GMT -5

Jim James & The Preservation Hall Jazz Band: Besides 2011 when they played together on the What Stage (one of my favorite shows of all time), I saw them a month ago at a Sandy Benefit show in Jersey. Jim James came out and did two songs with them before his MMJ set. They are a great band on their own and were awesome by themselves, but they also have a great chemistry with Jim, played off each other really well. Should be epic

Post by mr.moss on Feb 21, 2013 14:09:53 GMT -5

Mumford & Sons - Caught their set at Roo in 2011. Great energy....should be a solid performance.Pretty Lights - Party! Party! Party!Wilco - Great band, deep catalogue and great live!The National - I have seen them twice, once in an outdoor setting and once in a theatre....Both shows were spectacular. I wouldnt miss this set at Roo!Kendrick Lamar - Fun show last year at Roo (minus the horn)!Animal Collective - Saw them in 2008...not my cup of tea, but the show was good live performance.Jim James - No brainerCat Power - Beautiful performer!Glen Hansard - I saw the swell season a few years back. The show was great in a theatre, should be good if youre in a mellow mood.Portugal.The Man - LOVE THIS BAND!!!!!Local Natives - I saw them when their Gorilla Manor tour back in 2010. Great live and the new album is killer!Father John Misty - One of the best shows I have seen in recent memoryLee Fields - Great Soul performance!!!! If you dig Charles Bradley, you will dig Lee!The Sheepdogs - Fun band that plays a "classic rock" sound. Dont expect too much more than that though. Oh Canada!

Post by macmusicjunkie on Feb 21, 2013 15:07:18 GMT -5

Sir P. McCartney I was also at the 09 Piedmont Park show in Atl. It really was magical. My high point was singing "Hey Jude" with so many other people that were as happy as I was. He plays Beatles, Wings, and solo stuff live too. You will regret it the rest of your life if you miss his show if you've never seen him before.

Mumford & Sons I was at the overcrowded Which Stage show at the 2011 roo. It was hard to enjoy because there were so many people, which isn't their fault of course. Not a giant fan personally, but they definitely play their music well live. If you love their studio albums, then you'll love their live show. I did leave a bit early because of the crowd was bugging me and so I could catch most of !!!.

Pretty Lights I saw them at roo 09 the 1st time in the Other Tent, and that's when he used to have a live drummer. Then when he sold out the Masquerade in Atl, which I thought the floor was going to fall in because there were so many people. Finally, I saw him headline Counterpoint fest. So I've seen him from a small stage to the main stage, and I've had a blast every time. The man knows how to up his light show for each and every tour. If you like his studio stuff, it's hard not to like his show. My favorite was still the 09 show because the wife and I danced for over an hour (and it's hard to get her to dance), plus it really wasn't too crowded because he hadn't exploded with popularity yet.

the xx I saw there 2010 Thursday roo show. It was a very sleepy IMO. Part of the blame can be directed towards Bonnaroo's scheduling. They were slammed between two very over the top energetic bands which didn't help. They sounded crisp and clean, so I'm not knocking them in that aspect. I just thought they needed to add a bit more drums to intensify their show some. I left early to see Blitizen Trapper, and twas the right decision.

Jim James No I haven't seen his solo show, but everyone else seems to count My Morning Jacket and of course MMJ are incredible live.

Nas I saw his show with Damian Marley at roo. It was good, but I still say they should have been in a tent. The main stage kind of swallowed them whole. Nonetheless, i thought it was OK. Enjoyed it, but didn't rush home to tell anyone about it excitingly.

ZZ Top - the boys with beards still can play. I saw them about 5 years ago, and I had a blast. They mostly play their greatest hits, but threw in a few old bluesy ones too. I highly recommend this show.

Tame Impala Lordy lord that was hell of a show. The setlist says only two jams in their set, but they easy extended 5 or 6 of their songs with psychedelic jams. They had a retro looking screen with swirling lines and such following the rhythm behind them. At one point, the lead singer, Kevin Parker, said, "Sorry if my voice sounds like a seal in space..or an otter maybe." At 1st, I thought he was just high as can be saying nutty stuff to the audience. Then someone told me he was referring to being sick with pneumonia. I can't believe his voice sounded so good for someone recovering from pneumonia! Their sound is tight as can be. DO NOT MISS THIS SHOW

Gov't Mule I've seen Warren Haynes a gob of times, and he never disappoints. If you don't know, Gov't Mule will play around 4 or 5 covers that are so unexpected. For example, I saw them do Radiohead's "Creep" and another show they did Nirvana "Come as You Are." Always a super fun show.

Portugal.The Man I love PTM, and they never disappoint. They keep cranking out album after album, and each one is so good. Their Thurdsay show was my favorite of the day and instantly hooked me as a fan. I even saw their weird secret show at roo 2011 on the Mr. T parade float.

Local Natives I want to see them again because I was kind of far back for their last roo show. They sound tight and the harmonies were so catchy. I hope scheduling allows me to see them again.

Baroness Glad to see Baroness is out touring again after their grizzly bus accident. Yeah, these guys are a hell of a hard rock band. Don't miss if you've never seen them live.

Trombone Shorty I saw him play live with Galactic. The man can manhandle his instrument like no other. It truly is amazing to watch him work.

Walk The Moon I love seeing a roo cafe act right before they explode with popularity. Their cafe show was nuts. Crazy energy! They had their warrior paint on, and went to battle. Hell they had girls dancing on top of tables. God I loved that show. I then saw them at Music Midtown, and it was also good, but nothing beats seeing them with like only 50 people going crazy in cafe where.

Conspirator DO NOT MISS CONSPIRATOR. They are now one of my favorite live shows. Their music instantly melts your face off. I've seen them twice and both times I walked away from their show beyond amazed.

Two Gallants I saw them in roo 08. I went in not knowing any of their music, and left saying Meh. The vocals are too whiney for me. I will admit though their new album isn't bad, I'm def. passing on them this year.

JEFF The Brotherhood I saw them open for the Kills. I'm not in love with the one studio album of theirs I have...however, their live show is another animal. It's a blend of heavy rock and trippy psychedelic rock. If I remember right, it was only two guys, but they had a big sound.

Futurebirds Solid show, enough said

Reptar I've seen Reptar twice. The 1st time, I saw them open for Washed Out. The energy was out the roof. I didn't care for the vocalist's voice too much, but I had fun. Then I saw them a 2nd time this past Athfest, and I just hated it. They weren't in sync and the vocalist was so whiney. I kept giving them more chances and holding out hoping the next song would be as energetic as the 1st time I saw them, but the show kept getting worse and worse. Not going to see them.

Trixie Whitley Yet another artist I saw in the cafe that now has a stage slot. Her range is rediculaous. She's soul, blues, and mellow rock all wrapped into one amazing performance. Highly recommended

Edit:

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis I just saw Macklemore & Ryan Lewis Sat. at the Final Four Festival in downtown ATL. It was a pretty entertaining show. It wasn't anything to brag about, but I was entertained. I'll definitely say they brought a lot of energy with them on stage. A lot of the music came from the DJ, Ryan Lewis, but they had a few musicians playing things like trombones and hitting cymbals.

Post by mojoworks on Feb 21, 2013 15:30:07 GMT -5

This year TP&HBs and ZZTop will be my "I wasn't born yet" bands. It seems every year they have an old band that I saw back in the 70's or 80's. It also seems every year I get in a conversation with someone young that go like this; Me "I saw The Police in 1982" Younster "Oh, I wasn't born yet"

Post by Mista Don't Play on Feb 21, 2013 16:10:19 GMT -5

One of the great things about this lineup is how much I haven't seen. I've seen a handful of the artists on the lineup, most of them at Roo's past. This is probably part of the reason I'm so excited for the festival.

Post by timothy on Feb 21, 2013 16:44:55 GMT -5

I saw Cat Power in '07 when she was touring with the Memphis River Band performing The Greatest. It was an amazing, perfectly performed show and I felt like I missed out on seeing her usual "style". Looking forward to her being back to abnormal on the farm.

Post by mhardcore1 on Feb 21, 2013 16:51:09 GMT -5

The National : Great show. (Alligator & Boxer material) Ready for the newer stuff. Excellent Catalog of Music.Grizzly Bear : Opened for Radiohead & although I wasn't familiar w/ all their material yet, they sounded beautiful, can't wait to see them now, cuz their last 2 albumns since I have seen them have been so good!Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti : Pitchfork 2 yrs. ago, really excited to see them, they were really sweet, but his set was shortened after he wigged out & took off? Seems like a common trend, so as much as I'd love to see a full set of his, I won't hold my breath.Japandroids : Kick ass!ARAABMUZIK : Guy is flippin sweet. Could b a helluva late night show!Dirty Projectors : Another band that just keeps on putting out incredible music! Their harmonizing can be breathtaking! Great fit for Roo! Animal Collective : I loved them @ Pitchfork 2 years ago, although my opinion can b polarizing. They play little of their recorded material, as they prefer to test out newer stuff. Can't wait to see them again, as every show of their's has a unique feel.Beach House : Hypnotizing! Saw them in Buffalo, NY & @ Pitchfork last year.Kendrick Lamar : Saw bits & pieces of him twice last yr. @ Pitchgfork n Roo, the guy knows how to party.Purity Ring : Hopefully a night show. Everyone looking for good Electronic music should be sure to check them out.Cults : Sound as good as the albumn. Cute fun, a nice break for ur Girlfriend.

Post by FuzzyWarbles on Feb 21, 2013 17:03:28 GMT -5

I saw Cat Power in '07 when she was touring with the Memphis River Band performing The Greatest. It was an amazing, perfectly performed show and I felt like I missed out on seeing her usual "style". Looking forward to her being back to abnormal on the farm.

I hate that I missed her with the Memphis River Band. I saw her perform recently with the new band of three girls and a guy on guitar and keyboards and the few pre Sun songs whre she got soulful were the highlights of the show for me. She had a couple of awkward, what seemed to be anxiety induced moments. Seemed very nervous and took around five minutes before taking the stage after the band began playing. Once she quit singing mid song and left them to sing fill ins. She loves her fans or knows how to raise merch sales. She stayed and signed albums, tickets, and shirts from the stage for every single person in the crowd rather than performing an encore. I wouldn't mind seeing her again, but with this lineup it is unlikely.

What you got back home, little sister, to play your fuzzy warbles on? I bet you got little save pitiful, portable picnic players. Come with uncle and hear all proper! Hear angel trumpets and devil trombones. You are invited.